“We know Rwanda is good” – Ademola Lookman anticipates World Cup qualification

By: Monsurah Olatunji

Nigeria international Ademola Lookman, is optimistic about Nigeria’s chances of securing a vital win against Rwanda in their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification match on Friday.

With Nigeria’s World Cup hopes hanging in the balance, the Super Eagles face a difficult task in overturning their disappointing start to the qualifiers.

Currently sitting fifth in Group C with just three points from four matches, Nigeria will need to win their remaining games to stand a chance of qualifying for the World Cup.

The reigning African Player of the Year, who has been in superb form this season for Atalanta—scoring 13 goals and providing five assists in 23 Serie A appearances—could be the key to reviving Nigeria’s World Cup dream.

Having recently been crowned CAF Player of the Year, Lookman remains confident that the Super Eagles will be able to claim the much-needed three points on Friday.

However, he acknowledges the threat posed by the Amavubi, who are currently top of the group and unbeaten in their campaign.

Speaking ahead of the clash, Lookman told NFF Media: “Now, the team is looking forward to Friday’s game, the first game. We’re looking to go out there and work hard, impose ourselves on the game, and enjoy the process,” Lookman said.

“We know Rwanda is a good team, we know about their quality, but at the end of the day, we need to focus on ourselves and try to bring the game to them, to fight together for the win.”

He further added, “Everybody knows the level of the players that we have here. It’s an incredible group of players, and most importantly, they’re good people. Everyone has the same objective – to win, and that’s very important.”

The former Leicester City winger emphasized the unity of the squad, adding that the team’s chemistry would be a crucial factor in their pursuit of victory.

“The group is together, very tight-knit, so that’s the winning formula. Everybody’s positive, we’ve had two good training sessions. So, we’re looking forward to putting out a great performance.”

Nigeria will need to overcome the challenge of a resilient Rwandan team to keep their World Cup dreams alive.

With Lookman and other top players like Victor Osimhen and William Troost-Ekong leading the charge, the Super Eagles will be hoping to start their campaign revival with a strong performance on Friday.